Nordia 55 Cruiser Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Nordia 55 Cruiser is a heavy-displacement yacht designed for momentum and sea-kindliness rather than light-air agility. With a hull form characterized by a moderate fin keel and a protected skeg-hung rudder, the 55 tracks exceptionally well in a seaway. Under sail, the boat feels stiff and powerful; it is not uncommon for these vessels to maintain high average speeds in 20+ knots of wind while the crew remains dry in the protected center cockpit.

The rigging is typically a cutter configuration, allowing for a versatile sail plan that can be easily managed by a couple. Many 55s were equipped with hydraulic furling systems for the mainsail and headsails, reflecting the yard’s emphasis on "push-button" shorthanded sailing. While the sail area-to-displacement ratio is conservative, the yacht's ability to carry sail late into a blow ensures it outperforms lighter boats when conditions turn foul. Owners often report that the aluminum hull provides a much quieter ride than GRP, as the material naturally dampens the sound of water slapping against the bow.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of a Nordia 55 is a showcase of traditional Dutch joinery, typically finished in book-matched teak, cherry, or mahogany. Because these were semi-custom builds, the layouts vary, but the most common configuration features a grand full-beam owner’s stateroom aft with a private head and separate shower stall. The raised saloon is a hallmark of the "Cruiser" series, offering panoramic views and an abundance of natural light that is often missing in deep-cockpit offshore yachts.

Sibling models built on similar design principles include the slightly smaller Nordia 54 and the evolved Nordia 56. The 55 Cruiser often shares its hull DNA with the 55 Performance Cruiser variant, though the latter usually features a taller rig and a deeper keel. In terms of variations, some 55s were built with a "deck saloon" profile that provides a secondary internal steering station, while others prioritized a lower profile for a sleeker aesthetic. The galley is almost always longitudinal, located in the passageway to the aft cabin, providing a secure place to brace oneself while cooking at sea.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Nordia 55, the primary focus must be the integrity of the aluminum hull and the complexity of its onboard systems.

• Galvanic Corrosion: As an aluminum vessel, the 55 requires a perfectly functioning isolation transformer and a well-maintained sacrificial anode system. Prospective buyers should look for "bubbling" paint near the waterline or around through-hull fittings, which can indicate electrolytic action.
• Teak Deck Attachment: Nordia typically bonded teak decks to the aluminum sub-deck. While this avoids thousands of screw holes, the adhesive can fail over decades. It is critical to check for areas where the teak has lifted, as trapped moisture against the aluminum can lead to poultice corrosion.
• Hydraulic Systems: Given the age of many 55s, the extensive hydraulic network—often powering the winches, windlass, and furling—requires a rigorous pressure test. Leaks in the "Navtec" or similar hydraulic lines can be difficult to trace through the yacht's complex cabinetry.
• Paint System Longevity: Aluminum yachts rely on a sophisticated paint system for aesthetics. If the yacht is due for a full "Awlgrip" or "Alexseal" repaint, this represents a significant capital expenditure that must be factored into the purchase price.

Community & Resources

Owners of these vessels often find support through the Dutch Built Yachts community, an informal network of enthusiasts dedicated to the preservation of high-end Netherlands-built aluminum craft. While Van Dam Nordia ceased operations in 2013, technical documentation and original drawings are sometimes still accessible through maritime archives in the Netherlands or through specialized Dutch refit yards like KM Yachtbuilders, who often service the legacy Nordia fleet.

The Verdict

The Nordia 55 Cruiser is a "forever boat" for the sailor who prioritizes safety, custom craftsmanship, and the unique longevity of aluminum construction over modern production speeds.

Pros:

• Unrivaled Construction: The Alustar hull offers a strength-to-weight ratio and impact resistance that GRP cannot match.
• World-Class Joinery: The interior finish remains a benchmark for the industry, even decades after launch.
• Heavy Weather Prowess: A true blue-water hull that remains comfortable when conditions deteriorate.

Cons:

• System Complexity: High-end Dutch yachts feature dense plumbing and electrical grids that require an experienced hand to maintain.
• Corrosion Sensitivity: Requires strict adherence to electrical isolation and paint maintenance.
• Price Point: Due to their build quality, they command a significant premium on the brokerage market compared to production boats of the same age.